First let me say, I have had FM since I was in my early 20's and I just turned 50. I just, over the last 3 months, changed my diet ALOT and lost 22 lbs. and I have not felt this good in many many years.
I have TONS more energy and my pain level is way down. If I knew doing this would have helped this much, I would have done it years ago.
I eat 6 small meals a day - I have cut out most sugar - not all because I feel if you deprive yourself 100% of something you'll never stick to a change of eating. I do not use anymore butter - just small amounts of olive oil. Not much bread, but I do have it on occasion. Lots of fresh fruit and vege's - sweet potato's, brown rices - chicken, fish, not much red meat....lots of water, green tea, seltzer and cranberry juice without added sugar. I will not touch artificial sweeteners either. Its really easy to do and although I craved sugar BAD the first few weeks, it has gotten much easier.
I now feel so much better that I am walking 2-3 times per week for about 1/2 hour. I sometimes don't feel well after walking, but if I rest a bit, I feel better in about an hour or two. I know exercise tolerance comes slowly to FMers.
I have tried acupuncture and it helped me tremendously. I just could not continue to go because of cost. I do go for massage twice a month which helps me very much. I found a wonderful therapist who is well-versed with FM and I think thats very important. Plus you need to tell your therapist what feels good and what doesn't or you'll suffer afterwards.
I only take a low dose antidepressant at bedtime which helps me sleep and helps my pain. I take no other meds - they really don't help much...Motrin on occasion when I am very achy. I do take some vitamins - the basics and acedolpholis too.
Seriously, I think what you put into your body, especially people with FM, affects you greatly. I can say that for sure now because I feel SO MUCH BETTER. I still have bad painful days now and then, but I would say I am about 60-65% better and after suffering with this for 25 plus years, I am very happy.
MaryAnn
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